Writers

Sam Whitelock injured; unlikely for Steinlager Series

allblacks.com 27 May 2013 Getty Images

All Blacks and Crusaders lock Sam Whitelock is expected to be out of rugby for four to six weeks after he fractured a finger in his team's 28 - 19 Investec Super Rugby loss to the Chiefs at Waikato Stadium on Friday night.

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen today confirmed the 24-year-old is out injured for four to six weeks after breaking his right ring finger - meaning he is unlikely to be declared fit for next month’s Steinlager Series against France.

“Sam will undergo a follow-up x-ray after which we should have a clearer picture of the injury and what that means for his return to rugby.

“While this is disappointing for Sam, and for the All Blacks, one man’s misfortune is another man’s opportunity, so we look forward to seeing that opportunity being realised.”